Vehicle mountable holographic promoting system

ABSTRACT

Vehicle mountable holographic promoting system and method of use; system includes a body with light, mount, and controller in communication with a software application and the body. The body is mountable to the vehicle using mount. Mount can be removably attachable or otherwise secured to the roof of the vehicle. The controller controls the body such that the body can visually promote via an image display an item using the light—display region appearing to float on a plane above vehicle.

CROSS-REFERENCE OF RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.16/935,796, filed on Jul. 22, 2020, pending, which is aContinuation-in-Part of U. S. application Ser. No. 16/731,891, filed onDec. 31, 2019, pending, which is a Continuation-in-Part of U. S.application Ser. No. 16/435,267, filed on Jun. 7, 2019, patented, nowU.S. Pat. No. 10,755,612, issued Aug. 25, 2020, and fully incorporatesthe content of those applications by this reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The following includes information that may be useful in understandingthe present disclosure. It is not an admission that any of theinformation provided herein is prior art nor material to the presentlydescribed or claimed inventions, nor that any explicitly or implicitlyreferenced publication or document is prior art.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to the field of displays and,more specifically, relates to vehicular advertising displays.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

Advertising media such as newspapers, public radio, television, andbillboards has suffered a dramatic decrease in popularity andadvertising effectiveness with the advent of the internet and mobilephone technology. Sponsors, therefore, are highly motivated to identifynew methods of distributing advertisements to create brand awareness. Asnewer technologies such as mobile phones evolve into highlysophisticated two-way communication systems, advertisers can leveragesuch technologies to provide trackable advertising impressions and brandawareness by directly displaying advertisements and testimonials topotential customers.

advertising on motor vehicles started long ago, and consumers havebecome accustomed to various related advertising methods. For instance,a car owner may provide an advertiser with advertising or logo space onthe vehicle. The car owners paint or affix these advertisements or logoson the vehicle's body. Advertisers have used these advertising methodsextensively. Due to the fixed amount of surface area available on amotor vehicle's body, advertising space is often minimal, whileplacing-costs on successful vehicles are very high. In exchange,however, the sponsors who purchase advertising space on vehicles getbroad spectator and media coverage throughout the race. Thus, althoughexpensive, such advertising on the motorsport vehicle body by thesponsors provide direct and indirect benefits to the sponsors inincreased sales of their products/services and improve goodwill towardthe advertiser.

Of course, the owner or operator of the motorsport vehicle would like tocharge the highest amount possible for such advertising space on themotor vehicle body to maximize the revenue generated by suchadvertisements. While a vehicle's surface area may technically limitgenerated revenue, too much advertising on vehicles causes observers toignore the advertisements, reducing the advertisement's effectiveness. Asuitable solution is desired.

US Pub. No. 2017/0308930 to Michael W. Shore relates to the vehicleadvertising system and method. The described vehicle advertising systemand method comprises an electronic display located on a vehicle with theelectronic display operably connected to a microcontroller. The vehiclebrake pedal is operably connected to the microcontroller and theelectronic display, wherein when an operator of the vehicle applies thebrake pedal, one or more messages are displayed on the electronicdisplay, and when the operator releases the brake pedal, the message (ormessages) is no longer displayed using the electronic display. In someexample versions, the electronic display may be implemented in thecontext of particular display devices, such as, for example, anelectronic holographic display that uses light diffraction to create avirtual three-dimensional image of an object. Such a holographic displayor another form of 3D imaging can be utilized to electronically displayimages in an electronic display without requiring the aid of any specialglasses or external equipment for a viewer (e.g., other drivers and/orpassengers in other vehicles) to see the messages including imagesdisplayed using the electronic display.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure provides a novel vehicle-mounted projectingsystem including a body, preferably with one or more of a mount, acontroller, and a 3D fan projector. In some embodiments, the body isremovably mountable to a vehicle via the mount. In some embodiments, thecontroller is configured to control the body to visually promote atleast one promotable item using the 3D fan projector, the promotableitem preferably appearing to float on a place above the vehicle.

In some embodiments, the 3D fan projector includes a fan. In someembodiments, the fan includes 2-8 fan blades. In some embodiments, thefan blades have a diameter of 50-110 cm. In some embodiments, the fan isat least two fans. In some embodiments, the fan has a speed of 670-2000rpm.

In some embodiments each of the fan blades includes a plurality ofmicro-LEDs. In some embodiments, the plurality of micro-LEDs is 2200micro-LEDs. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of micro-LEDs hasa lifetime of up to 80,000 hours.

In some embodiments, the 3D fan projector has a resolution of 720p to8k. In some embodiments, the 3D fan projector has a resolution of440×440 px to 1280×1280 px.

In some embodiments, the 3D fan projector has a brightness of 204-2500lumens. In some embodiments, the 3D fan projector has a brightness of800-2200 nits.

In some embodiments, the body uses less than 65 W when visuallypromoting the at least one promotable item. In some embodiments, thebody includes a power supply of 100-240V.

In some embodiments, the 3D fan projector has a view angle of up to140°.

In some embodiments, the body is configured to accept an image data ofthe promotable item through at least one or more of: WIFI, USB,Thunderbolt, memory card, or HDMI cable. In some embodiments, the imagedata is configured to be in at least one or more of the followingformats: JPEG, MP4, JPG, GIF, AVI, RVMB, MPEG, RAVB, APEG, PNG, WMV,MKV, MOY, FLY, OBJ, or GLTF.

For purposes of summarizing the invention, certain aspects, advantages,and novel features of the invention have been described.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The figures which accompany the portion of this specification illustratevehicle mountable holographic promoting systems, constructed, andoperative as disclosed below.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the holographic promoting system duringan ‘in-use’ condition.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the vehicle mountable holographicpromoting system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a holographic projector.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the fan of the holographic projector ofFIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of use for the system.

FIG. 6 is a depiction of a user interface for the holographic promotingsystem.

FIG. 7 is a side perspective view of a holographic promoting systemmounted on an automobile.

FIG. 8 is a side perspective view of a holographic promoting systemmounted on an automobile.

FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of a holographic promoting systemmounted on an automobile.

FIG. 10 is a side perspective view of a holographic promoting systemmounted on an automobile.

FIG. 11 is a side perspective view of a holographic promoting systemmounted on an automobile.

FIG. 12 is a side perspective view of a holographic promoting systemmounted on a tram car.

FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of a holographic promoting systemmounted on a riverboat.

FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of a holographic promoting systemmounted on a riverboat.

FIG. 15 is a side perspective view of a holographic promoting systemmounted on an air taxi.

FIG. 16 is a front-left perspective view of a holographic promotingsystem mounted on an air taxi.

FIG. 17 is a front-left perspective view of a holographic promotingsystem mounted on an air taxi.

FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of a holographic promoting systemmounted on an air taxi.

FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of a holographic promoting systemmounted on an air taxi.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the vehicle mountable holographicpromoting system during an ‘in-use’ condition.

FIG. 21 is another perspective view of the vehicle mountable holographicpromoting system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the vehicle mountable holographicpromoting system of FIG. 20.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of components of the vehicle mountableholographic promoting system of FIG. 19.

The various versions of the present invention will hereinafter bedescribed in conjunction with the appended drawings, wherein likedesignations denote like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As discussed above, versions of the present disclosure relate todisplays and more particularly to vehicle mountable holographicpromoting systems as used to improve the display of advertisements usinga movable 3D hologram promoting system roof mountable to a car, train,bus, helicopter, drone, blimp, air taxi, or other moving vehicle orobject.

Generally, the present invention provides an advertising method thatwill increase advertising opportunities for advertisers as well asmaximizing the advertising revenues for motor vehicle owners oroperators. The system is mountable to a roof, sides, door panels,fenders, front, back, hood, trunk lid, or other surfaces of a vehicleand generates or displays a holographic image for promoting products,events, promotional items, or other images. These projector devices relyon the viewer's persistence of vision. But for conciseness, this imageis referred to as a hologram. In this document, “hologram” is used inthe lay sense of displaying an image that appears to bethree-dimensional and appears to be disconnected from any support.“Hologram” is not used in the specialized way that a laser or opticspractitioner would use the word. A body of the system may be mounted toa vehicle using various suitable clips or fasteners for temporarilysecuring the device to the vehicle without damaging it. In certainversions, pyramid hologram display technology may be used to display thepromotional item. Also, the plane of the fan can point in any compassdirection around a vehicle, such as front, back, sides, etc., and canangle upward. In some versions, the device automatically moves the fanthrough those various directions to provide a view to customerspositioned around the vehicle. For instance, the projector couldautomatically rotate around an axis extending vertically through avehicle.

As an example, a taxicab company may collect payments for ads and videosby email from another company who wishes to advertise on their cabs.Files are received in a format compatible with the 3D projector and asoftware application. The file then can be emailed to a vehicle operator(cab driver) assigned to the job, and the cab driver can download thematerial, save it in the software application, and insert each companyad in not only the assigned time-slot, but also on the day, and evenmonth when the ad is scheduled to run. Once all ads are saved in anassigned time-slot, the cab driver will sync the ads with projector orother similar technology using WIFI (or other local area technology) ora chip or card inserted in projector. While on the road, the cab driverwill simply activate the projector and ads will automatically displaybased on the scheduled time for each ad. Alternatively, the driver candownload the ads using appropriate controls. In some versions, thedriver or ad operator can see the ads listed in the order they arescheduled to run. And this can be controlled using appropriate controls,as well. In some cases, appropriate controls can be a touch screen,mobile phone, or other control mechanisms. Optionally, the driver can bepaid for operating the holographic display. The payment can becalculated based on the number of miles the driver accumulated with theprojector operating.

Display resolution may be 720P, 1080P, High Definition, 4k, 5k, 6k, 7k,8k, or other suitable resolution. Ads may feature logos, text, hologrammovies, or images, which may be rotating and 3D dimensional. Slow,medium, or fast rotational speeds can be selected for the ads.

FIGS. 1-4 shows various views of vehicle mountable holographic promotingsystem 100. FIG. 1 depicts system 100 with mount 130, controller 140,projector 144, fan 2040, and fan blades 2041. The device is mountable tovehicle 1500 using mount 130, which may include a removable clip orother suitable mounting fastener. In some versions, mount 130 connectsto vehicle 1500 using a nondestructive means, a means that does notcompromise the skin of vehicle 1500. A G-clamp is suitable for mountingthe system to vehicle 1500. In some versions, mount 130 connects tovehicle 1500 using bolts, screws, or other connectors that penetratevehicle 1500's skin.

Controller 140 controls projector 144 such that projector 144 displayshologram 20 on fan 2040. (see for example FIG. 8) In some versions,projector 144 displays an image by selectively lighting LED placed onfan blades 2041. Sometimes hologram image 20 appears to float abovevehicle 1500, like floating in midair. In some versions, vehicle 1500 isautomobile 1500, boat 1501, tram car 1510, air taxi 3000, or any otherobject that moves. Projector 144 can mount on any object that moves.Also, controller 140 can operate the rotation speed and direction ofprojector 144. In some versions, controller 140 is a cellular phone orother touchscreen electronic device with WIFI capability. In these orother versions, software application 162 operates on an appropriatedevice to specifically control scheduling and advertisement content froma list and to specifically control on and off conditions. The controlscheduling comprises fillable time-slots which may be scheduled withadvertisement content. Hologram 20 is displayable and viewable duringlighted and non-lighted conditions. Some versions of system 100 includeone or more GOPRO or GOPRO-type cameras 190, for example mounted on thewindshield of vehicle 1500, as shown in FIG. 1 or mounted on the hood ofvehicle 1500, as shown in FIG. 2.

In some versions, holographic projector 144 has 2-8 fan blades 2041 thatare arranged into a fan structure; the fan structure has a diameter thatranges from 18-48 inches. For instance, useful fan blade diametersinclude 22″ (56 cm), 30″ (75 cm), 24″ (60 cm), 35″ (89 cm), 27″ (67 cm),26″ 65 cm), 16″ (40 cm) and 39″ (99 cm), among other useful diameters.In some versions, the size of hologram 10 is equal to or ½ to 6 inchessmaller than the blade diameter. The diameter of the blades listed abovecome from measuring the total distance across the region that the bladessweep during operation. For instance, for some 4-blade fans, each bladeis 12 inches long ultimately connected a shaft from the motor or a shaftpowered by the shaft of the motor these shafts at the head of thedevice. In some versions, a 24 inch diameter comes about because that iswhat the two individual blades add up to. But for fans 2040 with hubs2043 (see FIG. 3) that extend out from a motor shaft some distance, theoverall diameter would be 12 inches plus hub 2043 diameter. Someversions of the fan have four 11 inch long blades or four 15 inch longblades yielding overall diameters of 22 inches and 30 inches,respectively. These versions would have fan blades 2041 that extended tothe center of the hub 2043. Some versions connect these blades asdescribed above and some versions use different methods to connect theseblades. Sometimes, blades 2041 are referred to as rays. Typically, themore blades the better. For instance, having more blades allows forslower rotation, which decreases the sound level from the projectormechanics and diminishes overheating. Some versions use a motor 2044(see FIG. 3) have modern stators that allow further decreases in soundlevel. Some projector versions have sound levels as low as 45 dB.Increasing the number of blades while retaining the number of frames persecond results in a more luminous and color-saturated (bolder) image.

LEDs and micro-LEDs 2042 line the edges of fan blades 2041. Someversions use a technology that supplies compact, micrometer scale LEDsfor creating the holographic image. In some versions, an individual fanblade edge includes 2200 micro-LEDs. When placed on a 24 inch,four-bladed fan, the LEDs provide an image that is 1280 px by 1280 px(sometimes a lower pixel count such as 880 px by 880 px) with a totalbrightness of approximately 2200 nits (2200 cd/m²). Note that thebrightness is measured in candela per square meter is the derived SIunit of Luminance. The unit is based on the candela, the SI unit ofluminous intensity, and the square meter the SI unit of area. Thesebrightness levels allow for efficient color display even when projectoris in bright conditions. Some versions have a high enough, finalresolution to be considered high definition. From this number andarrangement of LEDs, the image may contain millions of colors. In someversions, the device can display more than 16 million colors. Some ofthe projector devices have the micro-LEDs lights have life spans ofabout 80,000 hours. Some versions of the 3D LED Fan have a brightness of800 NITS.

The high resolution of this display enables a wide variety of images tobe generated including logos, etc. Images can be uploaded in manydifferent now-existing or later-invented formats. In some versions, thedata is in the JPEG or MP4 format. In these or other versions, the datais in JPEG MP4, JPG, GIF, AVI, RVMB, MPEG, RAVB, APEG, PNG, WMV, MKV,MOV, FLV, OBJ, and GLTF formats, among others. In some versions, thedata is compatible with 3D Studio, which can be offered as a standaloneproduct or as part of a cloud portal subscription. With the software auser can import and export the video or still data into 3D Studio whereit can be manipulated using the software's editing tools. For instance,the data can be animated and then output in mp4, PNG, JPG, obj, obj withattached mtl data) or gltf formats. Once manipulated, the files can bestored in the cloud for ready access or transmission to the device. Insome versions the owner of the device manages the contents stored on orserved to the device and in other instances, that content management issupplied as a service. Larger numbers of fan blades 2041 allow forslower rotation of the fan and less fan noise. In some versions of thedevice, the microcontroller or microprocessor do not accept externalconnections except from the manufacturer. In these or other versions,data is added to the device using solid media such as micro-SD cards.Some versions of the projector can transfer data in or out using andHDMI cable, such as an HDMI cable connected to a smartphone or computer.As those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize, the frame rate ofmoving pictures is a factor in image quality. In some versions, theholographic projector can project images at greater than 15 frames persecond, 20 frames per second, 30 frames per second, and 50 frames persecond. Useful resolutions include 440 px by 440 px, 500 px by 500 px,512 px by 512 px, 720 px by 720 px, 880 px by 880 px, 1024 px by 1024px, 1080 px by 1080 px, and 1280 px by 1280 px. Examples of usefulbrightness levels include 204 lumens, 700 lumens, 800 lumens, and 2500lumens, as well as many others. At these brightness levels, projector144 will create an image that is visible both day and night. In someversions, the viewing angle is up to 140°. This angle is measured bysetting the direct viewing angle (perpendicular to the plain of the fan)to zero. The viewing angle from that zero point extends 70° off to oneside and 70° off to the other side yielding a total viewing angle of140°. In some versions, the viewing angle upward and downward fromperpendicular are also up to 140°.

In some versions, special software development kits including APIs orSDKs and development documentation enable the user to develop their owninteractive applications using projector 144 as part of the visualdisplay. For instance, the APIs and SDKs support facial recognition,which can allow people interacting with the display to receiveinteractive messages and personalized images in 3D.

In some versions, fan blades 2041 are plastic, metal, or glass. In someversions, fan blades 2041 are black. Some projection devices uselightweight fans that are easily transportable as well as lightweightfan blades such as fan blades 2041 that are less than 5 kg or less than2.5 kg. Various versions of the projectors use fans with blades thatmass or weigh 20.26 ounces (575 grams), 2.8 kg/6.1 lbs., 2.9 kg/6.3lbs., or 2.2 kg/5 lbs.

The projector 144 is controlled by a microprocessor or microcontroller.The microcontroller contains hardware and software to communicate overWIFI methodologies or any other suitable now-known or later-inventedmethodologies. Thus, system 100 has firmware that helps a microprocessoror a microcontroller communicate with other devices storing ad content.In some versions, an important capability of the communication is thedevice's capability to receive instructions related to the images thatare to be displayed. In some versions, the device contains memorycoupled to the processor or microcontroller that can store at least anumber of hours (in some versions, at least eight hours) of data orimage data. Additionally, a remote control unit communicates with thedevice in some versions. This unit, for instance, a key fob, canremotely power the fan display on and off, among supplying otherpotential commands. In some versions, remote control unit has agraphical user interface, which is sometimes supplied by a touch screendevice. Additionally, some versions respond to speech commands andgesture controls, which could enable control by bystanders, etc., whenthat type of functionality was desired.

In some versions, two or more holographic display units are gangedtogether to create larger images 20 than would be possible with a singleholographic projector. Larger arrays of these projectors connect intandem for control by a primary microprocessor or microcontroller toprovide much larger images. For instance, a number of projectors 144could be mounted on the side of a typical panel van and provideholograms 20 on the order of the size of a panel van side.

Hologram 20's size depends on the fan diameter; and in some versions,hologram 20 is about two inches shorter than the fan blade diameter. Aglass or plastic cover 2100 or dome can enclose projector 144 to protectprojector 144 from the elements, and in some versions, can serve as aprojection screen for hologram 20. Additionally, cover 2100 can protectusers and the public from contacting moving parts during the projector'soperation. In some versions, dome or cover 2100 is 30 inches tall. Insome versions cover 2100 reduces fan sounds, or a sound cover is addedto reduce, fan sounds generated by projector 144.

In versions having multiple fans, angling fan 2040 can aim hologram 20upward, in some cases, onto elements in the sky.

Uninterruptible power supplies having 110 or 220 volts connected tovehicle electrical systems, or through other batteries or rechargeablebatteries, power projector device. In some versions, the device includessolar cells to make it and its batteries solar powered. UPS battery packare useful for supplying power to projector 144.

As above, system 100 may include projector 144 (with light 120), mount130, controller 140, and a 3D projector 144. Sometimes, “3D fanprojector 144” is referred to as “fan projector 144”, “holographicprojector 144”, or “projector 144”. Projector 144 comprises fan 2040,blade or fan blade 2041. System 100 comprises a glass dome 2100, whichis provided to protect projector 144 from weather, water, or otherambient environmental elements. In certain versions, system 100 furthercomprises solar panel 160 configured to collect solar power duringlighted conditions and to provide power to system 100. Variousadditional sources of power may be used including batteries or a powercord and adaptor for a vehicle cigarette lighter socket or the like (orthe device may be wired to existing vehicle wiring system). Solar panel160 may be square or round shaped and positioned in a center portionflush with a top of the glass dome 2100. Glass dome 2100 may beapproximately 12 inches high and 36 inches wide to exceed the width ofsolar panel 160 and projector 144. In some versions, these projectors144 are extremely energy efficient with low energy consumption such asconsumption rates lower than 60 or 65 W per hour. Some versions of thedevice have a power consumption up to 40, 55, or 60 watts (per device).

For purposes of this disclosure, “vehicle” includes among other vehiclesa train, a bus, a helicopter, a car, a taxi, a ferry, a boat, blimp, airtaxi, or a drone. Various versions employ various vehicles includingself-powered vehicles as long as vehicle is large enough to support theprojection device or as long as vehicle can pull a trailer that cansupport the projection device. In some versions, projector 144 turns offor blanks hologram 20 when vehicle 1500 stops moving. In these or otherversions, projector 144 reads movement data from itself or from vehicleallowing vehicle movement to trigger projector operation withoutthrottle or gas pedal actuation. Alternative versions of system 100continue to project the image when vehicle 1500 is stationary. Inversions where the vehicle is a bus, passengers sitting in the back seatof the bus as well as pedestrians will be able to play holographicroulette. Likewise, passengers and pedestrians can play holographicroulette when the vehicle is a taxi.

FIG. 2 depicts system 100 further including a GOPRO or GOPRO-type camera190 mounted on the fender or hood of car. Controller 140 interacts withprojector 144 through an electronic connection. Controller 140 can be acellphone or other WIFI-enabled device running software application 162,shown in FIG. 1. In some versions, controller 140 creates a privatelocal area network with projector 144. This connection allows data to betransferred into projector 144 without fear of an unauthorized persongaining access to the data or to projector 144. In some versions, theconnection is over a private WIFI network or connection. And sometimesthe privacy of the connection is insured using encrypted communications.Alternatively, controller 140 can be a special purpose device and can bepowered, as described above. The main type of data to be transmitted toprojector 144 is time-slot and ad data to instruct projector 144 whichads to display in which available fillable time-slots. Other data may betransmitted to projector 144, as well. Using near range networking orcommunicating technology, such as WIFI, allows controller 140 to syncthe ad and time-slot data with projector 144. In some versions, theprivate network is created using Bluetooth technology and is encrypted,as well. In circumstances where using a local network is not desired orwhen a local network is offline, projector 144 can be equipped with awaterproof slot for receiving a memory card or the like containing ad ortime-slot data or both. Some versions of projector 144 could containfunctionality to correct directly to the web and could employ virtualprivate network functionality to create a private or encryptedconnection to a version of controller 140 located elsewhere.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of system 100. As above, system 100includes mount 130, projector 144, fan 2040, and motor 2044. Fan 2040comprises fan hub 2043 connected to fan blades 2041, which are linedwith LED strips 2042, in some versions. Fan hub 2043 connects fan blades2041 to motor 2044 to form fan 2040. This version includes cover 2100.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of projector 144. As above, projector144 may include a motor 2044, hub 2043 connecting fan blades 2041 of fan2040 to motor 2044. Fan blades 2041 have LED strips 2042 along theiredges. Projector 144 advertises with a hologram image. Fans 2040 revolveat an appropriate number of revolutions per minute including at least inthe range of 670-2000 RPM.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram 550 illustrating a method of using vehiclemountable promoting system. As illustrated, the method of using vehiclemountable promoting system may include step one 501, providing system100 including body 110 with light 120, mount 130, and controller 140;body 110 is mountable to vehicle 1500 using mount 130. Mount 130removably attaches to vehicle 1500; controller 140 operates body 110such that body 110 visually promotes an item using light 120 reflectingoff of fan 2040 creating hologram 20. In some versions, the hologram 20appears to float on a plane above vehicle 1500; step two 502, mountingor installing system 100 to a top of vehicle 1500 using mount 130; stepthree 503, vehicle 1500 to initiate rotation of projector 144; and stepfour 504, using controller 140 to generate an image of item on body 110using light 120 and projector 144.

Content on projector 144 can be controlled by first downloading and theninstalling an app from an App Store such as an Android or iOS app ontoan appropriate device. Using this app or another app to produce content.And then connecting the phone wires wirelessly (WIFI) or wired (USB,Thunderbolt, HDMI, etc.) to the app running on the microcontroller ormicroprocessor. Alternatively, a third party could control access toprojector 144 and the user could supply content by uploading thatcontent to a secured area on the third party's website. In some versionsthe device generates a WIFI hotspot that will allow a user to connecttheir smart phone or similar device, but that prevents any other outsidecommunication between the user's device and the Internet when the user'sdevice is connected to hologram projector 144. The built in WIFI on thedevices helps connect with the controller devices, such as cell phonesor smart phones. In some versions the ads are downloaded as a playlistover WIFI, or they are otherwise transferred to projector 144. Computersecurity can be provided using any known method of access control toprojector 144. For instance, requiring a serial number of the projectorand a password will prevent unauthorized access. In other versions,computer security is created not providing a way for the device toaccept an external connection. These types of computer securitydiscourage malware and other attempts to take over the projector or makeit display images other than those the owner intends. In some versions,the controller has a wireless antenna sometimes located under a rotorunder the fan blades. And the controller uses this this wireless antennato connect to WIFI networks and to connect to local devices, such as asmart phone, when the controller creates the WIFI hotspot or creates aprivate local WIFI network. The list of communication methodologiesincludes WIFI; Remote control; Android, iOS, or other operating system;Windows and MacIntosh desktop systems; and cloud support. In someversions the software saves content such as mp4 content, directly toyour cloud portal account. Once this is done, data transfer to thedevice can be through cloud connections or the software app. Once a userhas uploaded a video to the cloud porta, the video is available to beuploaded either using the cloud (this requires the device beingconnected to a WIFI network) or using a phone app that downloads a videofrom the cloud and then uploads to the device using device hotspots. Incertain versions, content can be controlled remotely from anywhere inthe world. Content produce in .avi, .mov, and .mky can be uploaded tothe device. In some versions, uploading the content to the device isusing a cloud account or portal. In some versions the user will have toinitially build out the content in 3D Models/texture, animate it, andthen render it out as an mp4 file.

In some versions, riders in the vehicle can interact with the ad usingan appropriate app. For instance, a rider could add special effects orchange the rotation to customize the ad's look. For instance, an appcould add fireworks or water splashing above the ad. One special effectcould cause projection of an image up to 100 feet or greater in the air.Some versions could allow the riders to save the ad along with thespecial effects into their own social media account (INSTAGRAM orTICTOK) and share their creation with their friends. The advertiserscould customize their ad to allow for specific types of special effectsand perhaps could run contests to see who created the best ad. Theadvertisers could give riders a future or current discount for theircustomization of the ads.

The rider or passenger could have extensive control over the hologramimage 20 add with a user interface, as shown in FIG. 6. Some versions ofthe customization software allow a user to upload their unique renditionof the hologram ad to social media so that they can share their creationwith their friends or followers. Many different social media formats canfacilitate the user sharing their creation. These formats or platformsinclude INSTAGRAM, SnapChat, Facebook, TIK-TOK, or similar social mediaplatforms that exist now or are created later.

FIG. 6 shows a depiction of an interface 1000 used to customizeholographic 3D ads. It includes title 1010; special effects palette1020; preview region 1030, to allow previewing the creation; photopalette 1040; and share palette 1050. Finally, there is save or sharebutton 1060. As can be seen in the figure, share palette 1050 showsINSTAGRAM button 1051, SnapChat button 1052, Facebook button 1053, andTIK-TOK button 1054. Of course, any other platforms could also containcorresponding buttons in share palette 1050. In some versions, previewregion 1030 also connects to a camera outside of the car so that thepassenger can see a real or real time view of their creation.

All of these customizations can be recorded from a portable camera thatis weather resistant, such as GOPRO or GOPRO-type camera 190. Forinstance, in some versions, the camera will record the special effectsand other customizations created by the passenger.

Interface 1000 can also be used to entertain the passenger. Forinstance, the screen could be used to watch videos or play video games.The unit could also be used to charge for the ride, for playing thevideo or video games, or for any other provided service. The unit canuse typical payment methods including payment methods employing facialrecognition or other biometric information.

In some circumstances, the 3D hologram ad may distract the driver. Thisdistraction can be alleviated or rectified in a variety of ways. In someversions, the driver wears special glasses that filter out or block thehologram. Alternatively, an optical coating or electronic device thatfilters the hologram or dims it could be placed on the windshield.

These methodologies can be implemented for the drivers of othervehicles, as well. That is, whether the hologram projector is on thedriver's vehicle or another vehicle, various versions exist that allowdrivers to filter out any potential distraction from the hologram.

The user can modify the ad by adding special effects like splashingwater or fireworks. Or the user can take a selfie with the ad or insertsome other photo into the ad. As desired, the owner of the ad or productcan limit the types of customizations available for the user in order toprevent the user from inadvertently changing the message to somethingnot desired by the owner or to prevent other shenanigans.

When vehicle is a riverboat 1501 or river ferry 1501 (see FIG. 13 or seeFIG. 14), the various versions could include one or more of projector144. One option would have multiple 22″ or 30″ fans (model M or L fromHpyervsn) on the top, projecting advertisements. In some versions, thenumber of display units is limited by the length of the riverboat 1501,with some versions filling the length with holographic projector devicesand with other and in other versions partially filling the space withhologram projector devices. Alternatively, or in conjunction with that,multiple projectors 144 could be installed along the side of theriverboat 1501. In some versions to satisfy aesthetic values, the lengthand height will look proportional to the length and height of theriverboat 1501. Some versions have a 30″ fan with four blades and someversions have a 35.5″ fan with six blades. Fans of this size aresuitable for use on a taxi.

Another option would be to have the wall 2050 concept in the center onthe top of a riverboat 1501 and boxed out with a glass. For example,twenty-eight fans on the wall 2050 on each side of the boat would beenough to form a large hologram 20. Such an arrangement would allowprojecting a 4k image on each side so that the image is viewable on bothsides of the river. Another option would be to have one large LED fan inthe center of the top of the riverboat connected to a pole. In someversions, the holographic image will be much larger and lookproportional to the length of the riverboat, and the image will be undera glass cover possibly a pyramidal one. In some versions, a display wallhas four projectors 144 yielding a three-foot image size. In otherversions, the display wall has twenty-eight projectors 144.

For private shuttles, such as a tram car 1510 or other parking shuttles(think Disneyland or Disney World) hologram projector system 100 mountsto the top of the shuttle or onto the side of the shuttle.

In some versions, holographic projector systems 100 are also paired withconventional display technology such as display-screen 2010. Forinstance, an advertising installation could have both flat video screensand holographic projectors operating simultaneously, with the contentand ads joins to create a unified effect between the two differentdisplays or the displays generate or display ad content independently ofthe other display.

In some versions, a transparent plastic or glass component covers thefan, this helps the holographic image to sustain its resolution. Thecover can have any desired shape, such as circular or pyramidal. Withouta protective cover, dust particle, wind, and water will sometimesobscure or negatively affect image quality. Additionally, theenvironment can damage the projector. Likewise, the projected image, thehologram, can be circular or some other shape. In some versions, a blackbackground is less visible at night. Many known transparent plastics areuseful for fan covers including those that are acrylic or that are madefrom PLEXIGLAS™.

Since a bumpy road can affect the 3D hologram fan resolution, someversions of projector are used with vehicles having a sensor system thatcan even out the road. In some cases, the system can even out the derideover rough pavement enough to prevent the rough pavement fromsubstantially distorting the holographic image above vehicle. In somecases, the system can detect potholes, react to them to preventdistortion of the holographic image, and report the location of thepothole to local road authorities and other vehicles.

FIG. 7 shows holographic advertising system 100 as mounted on a vehicle,such as automobile 1500. Generally, system 100 mounts on any movableobject or vehicle 1500. Versions exist that have both display-screen2010 and projector 144 mounted separately or mounted together on pole2030 with a mounting bracket (not shown). Fan 2040 mounts at the end ofpole 2030, in this version. FIG. 7 shows projector 144 mounted to thetop of the vehicle with a removable mounting device that connects to thevehicle similar to the way an automobile roof luggage carrier connectsto the roof of an automobile. Bracket 1801 and bracket 1802 connectsystem 100 to a vehicle, such as automobile 1500. Pole 2030 extendsupward from platform 1803 and mounts projector 144 including fan 2040 toplatform 1803 elevated from platform 1803. Brackets 1801, 1802 extendfrom one side of the vehicle to the other across the roof, in someversions. Sometimes the holographic ad projector 144 has no cover. Thisarrangement is suitable for environments without inclement weather orfor waterproof or dustproof projector versions. Other versions havecovers to environmentally protect projector 144. Strong wind couldaffect a hologram image resolution of an object in motion. FIG. 7depicts projector 144 pointing to the side of the vehicle. But otherversions exist in which projector 144 points in any useful angle. Forinstance, FIG. 9 shows projector 144 pointing to the side of automobile1500. And FIG. 10 shows projector 144 pointing to the back of automobile1500. And FIG. 11 shows projector 144 pointing to the front ofautomobile 1500.

FIG. 8 shows holographic advertising system 100 as mounted on vehicle1500. Generally, system 100 can be mounted on any movable object orvehicle 1500. This version has both the display-screen 2010 andprojector 144. In this case, projector 144 uses cover 2100, which istransparent, made from glass or plastic such as acrylic or Plexiglas.The figure shows hologram 20, which depicts a beverage bottle.

FIG. 9 shows a holographic advertising system 100 as mounted, on vehicle1500. Generally, system 100 can be mounted on a movable object or onvehicle 1500. In this version, cover 2100 sits completely over system100. Fan 2040 is shown stationary underneath cover 2100. In someversions, hologram image 20 reflects off of fan 2040 on one side (thusextending from one side of vehicle 1500); in some versions, hologramimages 20 reflect off of both sides of fan 2040 (thus extending from twosides of vehicle 1500). Depending upon the arrangement of LEDs ormicro-LEDs, hologram image 20 displayed on one side of fan 2040 can bethe same as or different from the hologram displayed on the other sideof fan 2040. In some versions, strips of LEDs along fan blades 2041 offan 2040 generate the hologram image 20 on one side (thus extending fromone side of vehicle 1500); in some versions, strips of LEDs along fanblades 2041 of fan 2040 generate the hologram image 20 on both sides offan 2040 (thus extending from two sides of vehicle 1500).

FIG. 12 shows system 100 mounted on tram car 1510. In thisconfiguration, an advertiser can advertise on display-screen 2010 with amessage connected with the advertisement on hologram 20. For instance,DISNEY could have the message JOIN US TONIGHT on the display-screen 2010and, above that, a hologram 20 advertising fireworks. Similarly, theadvertisement on display-screen 2010 can be unconnected with theadvertisement on hologram 20.

FIG. 13 shows a boat, such as a river ferry or riverboat 1501. System100 lends itself to at least three different options on riverboat 1501.One option has multiple 22″ or 30″ fans 2040 (model M or L fromHpyervsn, for example) on top of the riverboat 1501, projecting ads. Astandard-sized riverboat could use any number of projectors 144depending on the desired size of the display-screen 2010, projectors144. Another option would place an arrangement of multiple fans 2040that yields a wall 2050 of projector space in or on the top or center ofriverboat 1501. This projection wall could be boxed out with atransparent cover 2100. A specific wall of projector space could use 28fans on each side of the wall. In some versions, such a wall ofprojection space would suit projecting a 4K image on each wall sideviewable from both sides of the river. A third option would have onelarge fan 2040 all in the center of the top of the riverboat connectedto a pole. In this version, fan 2040 would be large enough to provide adisplay surface proportional to the length and height of the riverboat1501. In some versions, projector 144 displays the image on cover 2100.In some versions, cover 2100 have a pyramidal shape. The version shownin FIG. 13 shows projectors 144 without a displayed hologram. Theversion shown in FIG. 14 shows projectors 144 with a displayed hologram20. Some versions have a clear pyramid cover over a projector or fanwall (designed to increase the size of the display). This cover protectsthe wall from harsh elements, such as rain, dust, and wind. In these orother versions, the fan wall connects to a rotating wheel on the boat.As a user raises the projector displaying the ad image, that wheelrotates toward the bow. Once in that position, wall 2050, fans 2040, orprojectors 144 can pivot up slightly to project the ad image upward,depending on which version the vehicle uses.

FIG. 15 shows an air taxi 3000 displaying hologram image 20 fromprojector 144. For these types of taxis, one or more retractable poles2030 extend out and retract in during takeoff and landing like theaction of landing gear. One or more projectors 144, having fans 2040,mount to the retractable poles 2030. In some versions, projector 144 hasa dome-shaped cover (not shown) to minimize the forces of wind or air onprojector 144 during flight. FIG. 16 shows an air taxi 3000 similar tothat of FIG. 15. This depiction is not showing a hologram image.Compartment 3010 is at the base of retractable pole 2030. FIG. 17 showsthe air taxi 3000 with the hologram image 20 displayed.

FIG. 18 shows a different version of air taxi 3000 in which projector144 and fan 2040 retract into compartment 3010. FIG. 19 shows theconfiguration of air taxi 3000 depicted in FIG. 18 with projector 144having fan 2040 extending out from compartment 3010. In some versions,projector 144 automatically extends out from compartment 3010 at thesame time as the landing gear extend, either under the pilot's controlor not. Similarly, on takeoff, projector 144 can automatically retractinto compartment 3010 as the landing gear retracts. Some versions willlimit hologram projection to initial takeoff times, final landing times,or those times when the air taxi is grounded or stationary. That meansthat projector 144 and fan 2040 will retract into compartment 3010 on orjust before takeoff. In some versions, projector 144 and fan 2040 willextend out from compartment 3010 just before touchdown.

FIGS. 20-23 show various views of a vehicle mountable holographicpromoting system 100. FIG. 20 shows a vehicle mountable holographicpromoting system 100 during an ‘in-use’ condition 150. As illustrated,system 100 may include projector 144 with light 120, brackets 1801,1802, and controller 140. Brackets 1801, 1802 connect body 110 tovehicle 10. In some versions, brackets 1801, 1802 removably attach orotherwise secured body 110 to vehicle 10. Controller 140 controlsprojector 144 to visually promote an item using light 120. Light 120creates an image, hologram 20, of the item. In some versions, hologram20 appears to float above vehicle 10.

FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of vehicle mountable holographicpromoting system 100 of FIG. 20. As above, vehicle mountable holographicpromoting system 100 may include fan projector 144 with at least onelight 120, brackets 1801, 1802, and a fan projector 144. Controller 140(FIG. 20) can control the rotation speed and direction of fan projector144. In some versions, controller 140 is a cellular phone or othertouchscreen electronic device with WIFI capabilities and comprises asoftware application 162 able to specifically control scheduling andadvertisement content from a pre-filled business list and tospecifically control on and off conditions. control scheduling comprisesfillable time-slots which may be scheduled with advertisement content.Hologram 20 is displayable and viewable during lighted and non-lightedconditions. In some versions, light 120 is a strip of LEDs.

As shown in FIG. 21, vehicle mountable holographic promoting system 100further includes a display-screen 168 located on a dashboard of vehicle10 and communicably coupled with controller 140 (not shown).display-screen 168 displays information regarding the fillabletime-slots of each ad and will sync with software application 162 andfan projector 144 simultaneously. A transmitter using Bluetooth (orother near range) technology will sync the ads inserted in differentfillable time-slots on software application 162 with fan projector 144on top of vehicle 10 simultaneously. This way a driver may view the adsdisplayed on display-screen 168. If WIFI technology is not connecting orotherwise functioning, a waterproof slot is provided on fan projector144 for receiving a memory card or the like containing data of the ads.

FIG. 22 shows a perspective view of the vehicle mountable holographicpromoting system 100 of FIG. 21. As above, the vehicle mountableholographic promoting system 100 may include fan projector 144 with atleast one light 120, brackets 1801, 1802, and fan blades 2041. Thecontroller controls the rotation speed and direction of fan projector144. In some embodiments, the controller is a cellular phone or othertouchscreen electronic device with WIFI capabilities

FIG. 23 shows a perspective view of projector 144. As above, projector144 may include a motor 2044, hub 2043 connecting fan blades 2041 of fan2040 to motor 2044. Fan blades 2041 have LED strips 2042 along theiredges. Projector 144 advertises with a hologram image. Fans 2040 revolveat an appropriate number of revolutions per minute including at least inthe range of 670-2000 RPM. FIG. 23 shows solar panel 160.

Holographic projector 144 has two operating modes which are selected onthe switch at the LED array base. Setup mode is used for setting up thedevice. Operating-mode is used for daily operation. Setup mode is usedfor initial use and when the operator desires to change operatingparameters. When setup mode is turned on, the device displays WIFIHotspot message and creates a private wireless network close to thedevice. The networks name is detailed in the operating instructions forthe holographic projector and indicated on the base of the rotor. Insome versions, the name is a seven digit number. The user must locatethis private network in order to connect to the device during setupmode. After the user has connected to this private network, the user maydownload image content or video content to the device. In some versions,the user downloads image content or video content from the user's smartphone.

Operating-mode is the mode used to cause projector 144 to project animage. In this mode, the device can be connected to the internet, becontrolled remotely, and display user content. When there is no uploadeduser content, the device displays an animated intro.

The steps described in the method of use can be carried out in manydifferent orders according to user preference. The use of “step of”should not be interpreted as “step for”, in the claims herein and is notintended to invoke the provisions of 35 USC § 112(f). It should also benoted that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues asdesign preference, user preferences, marketing preferences, cost,structural requirements, available materials, technological advances,etc., other methods for using system 100 (e.g., different step orderswithin above-mentioned list, elimination or addition of certain steps,including or excluding certain maintenance steps, etc.), are taughtherein.

The versions of the invention described herein are exemplary andnumerous modifications, variations and rearrangements can be readilyenvisioned to achieve substantially equivalent results, all of which areintended to be embraced within the spirit and scope of the invention.Further, the purpose of the foregoing abstract is to enable the USPatent and Trademark Office and the public generally, and especially thescientist, engineers and practitioners in the art who are not familiarwith patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from acursory inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure ofthe application.

What is claimed is:
 1. A vehicle-mounted projecting system comprising: abody with: a mount; a controller; a 3D fan projector; wherein the bodyis removably mountable to a vehicle via the mount, wherein thecontroller is configured to control the body to visually promote atleast one promotable item using the 3D fan projector, the promotableitem appearing to float on a place above the vehicle.
 2. Thevehicle-mounted projecting system of claim 1, wherein the 3D fanprojector comprises a fan.
 3. The vehicle-mounted projecting system ofclaim 2, wherein the fan comprises 2-8 fan blades.
 4. Thevehicle-mounted projecting system of claim 3, wherein the fan bladeshave a diameter of 50-110 cm.
 5. The vehicle-mounted projecting systemof claim 2, wherein the fan is at least two fans.
 6. The vehicle-mountedprojecting system of claim 2, wherein the fan has a speed of 670-2000rpm.
 7. The vehicle-mounted projecting system of claim 3, wherein eachof the fan blades comprises a plurality of micro-LEDs.
 8. Thevehicle-mounted projecting system of claim 7, wherein the plurality ofmicro-LEDs is 2200 micro-LEDs.
 9. The vehicle-mounted projecting systemof claim 1, wherein the 3D fan projector has a resolution of 720p to 8k.10. The vehicle-mounted projecting system of claim 1, wherein the 3D fanprojector has a resolution of 440×440 px to 1280×1280 px.
 11. Thevehicle-mounted projecting system of claim 7, wherein each of theplurality of micro-LEDs has a lifetime of up to 80,000 hours.
 12. Thevehicle-mounted projecting system of claim 1, wherein the 3D fanprojector has a brightness of 204-2500 lumens.
 13. The vehicle-mountedprojecting system of claim 1, wherein the 3D fan projector has abrightness of 800-2200 nits.
 14. The vehicle-mounted projecting systemof claim 1, wherein the body uses less than 65 W when visually promotingthe at least one promotable item.
 15. The vehicle-mounted projectingsystem of claim 1, wherein the body further comprises a power supply of100-240V.
 16. The vehicle-mounted projecting system of claim 1, whereinthe 3D fan projector has a view angle of up to 140°.
 17. Thevehicle-mounted projecting system of claim 1, wherein the body isconfigured to accept an image data of the promotable item through atleast one or more of: WIFI, USB, Thunderbolt, memory card, or HDMIcable.
 18. The vehicle-mounted projecting system of claim 17, whereinthe image data is configured to be in at least one or more of thefollowing formats: JPEG, MP4, JPG, GIF, AVI, RVMB, MPEG, RAVB, APEG,PNG, WMV, MKV, MOY, FLY, OBJ, or GLTF.